text: The technology most frequently found in bulk material analysis and coal analysis are PFTNA (Pulsed Fast Thermal Neutron Activation), the prompt gamma neutron activation analysis (PGNAA) and Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS).
  PFTNA and PGNAA technology rely on activation of the material on the conveyor belt by neutrons, and the instantaneous emission of gamma rays from nuclei which have absorbed neutrons.  Capitalizing on the unique gamma ray spectrum associated with each element, the instrument can perform an analysis each minute on the composite spectrum to determine the overall elemental composition of the material.
  LIBS operate by focusing the laser onto a small area at the surface of the material forming a plasma plume. When plasma quickly cools down the atomic emission lines of the elements can be observed using optical spectrometer. Based on obtained spectra quantitative chemical analysis of the sample is performed.